Prunus × blireana

One of the first trees to welcome spring, Prunus × blireana is a firm favourite on our Thurning ground. It produces a fantastic display of slightly fragrant, double pink flowers along its dark, bare branches. The blossom appears at the same time as the young, bronze-purple leaves begin to unfurl, which then mature to a darker green through summer.

This is a small, deciduous tree with a rounded habit, reaching about four metres in height and spread. It’s a reliable grower and has an average growth rate. It will do best in a sunny spot in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. It will tolerate most soil types, including clay and chalk, but doesn’t like very wet conditions.

For care, it requires very little pruning. If you need to shape it or remove any damaged branches, it’s best to do this in mid-summer to protect it from silver leaf disease. It’s a wonderful choice for adding a burst of early colour to smaller gardens, city courtyards, or as a standalone feature tree.